It was certified platinum by the RIAA for sales of over one million copies. It was also a major hit in the UK, where it reached number three on the UK Singles Chart and was certified silver by the BPI.[4][5]
The song opens with a prominent, high-pitched guitar riff played by John Fogerty. The lyrics have Fogerty telling of a gathering "up around the bend" on the highway and inviting the listener to join in.
Cash Box described the song as a "powerfully sung and played bit of rock with excellent top forty drive."[6]Record World called the single release with "Run Through the Jungle" a "two-sided monster."[7]
The song has been covered by artists such as Elton John, who recorded a version early in his career, and Hanoi Rocks, who took it to number four in their home country of Finland.
^Kent, David (1993). Australian Chart Book 1970-1992 (illustrated ed.). St Ives, N.S.W.: Australian Chart Book. p. 310. ISBN0-646-11917-6. N.B. The Kent Report chart was licensed by ARIA between mid 1983 and June 19, 1988.